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A team from the Sentara-EVMS Comprehensive Sickle Cell Program joined hundreds of participants at the 32nd Annual Walk for Sickle Cell Awareness on September 13 at Norfolk State University’s Dick Price Stadium. The program also sponsored the event and hosted an information table to connect with patients, families, and community members.

The walk, organized by the Sickle Cell Association, Inc., aimed to raise money and awareness for sickle cell disease. Participants joined in a two-mile walk around the stadium, while also connecting with local organizations dedicated to supporting those affected by the condition.

At the Sentara-EVMS Comprehensive Sickle Cell Program’s table, attendees had the opportunity to learn more about the program’s multidisciplinary approach to care, ask questions about resources available in Hampton Roads, and meet members of the team working to improve the lives of patients living with sickle cell disease.

“Events like this walk are essential for shining a light on the challenges faced by patients with sickle cell disease and for building a strong, supportive community,” said Dr. Madeeha Deo, assistant professor of Medicine and director of the Sentara-EVMS Comprehensive Sickle Cell Program. “We’re proud to stand alongside our patients and families in the fight against sickle cell.”

The Sentara-EVMS Comprehensive Sickle Cell Program offers coordinated care that integrates internal medicine, physical medicine and rehabilitation, and psychiatry and behavioral sciences under one roof. The program provides individualized treatment plans designed to address the complex needs of patients with sickle cell disease, while also advancing awareness and advocacy in the community.

Sentara Health and Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences EVMS Medical Group at 91��Ƭ�� joined forces to open the clinic and provide comprehensive medical care for sickle cell patients in Hampton Roads.

Just a year since opening the doors, feedback has been very positive. “We’re hearing that patients are appreciative of the thoroughness of their care, and grateful for the education they’ve received about their disease and medications — some in their seventies sharing they had never been given this information before,” said Dr. Deo. “They are thrilled to have access to psychiatry services to address long-term trauma and goals, and excited about innovative therapies like exchange transfusions that have reduced the frequency of painful crises.”

Dr. Deo adds that she has seen patients regain mobility, function, and independence —returning to friendships, college studies, and work. She says others have safely achieved family planning goals, including healthy pregnancies. “Above all, we are advocating for them on all fronts, from medical to social support, and standing with them every step of the way.”